The “Lion” position in Penn State’s defense requires a special kind of player. You have to cover like a safety and hit like a linebacker.
Jaylen Reed mastered it.
The senior safety declared for the 2026 NFL Draft after a standout final campaign, leaving behind a highlight reel of bone-jarring hits and clutch interceptions.
Season Analysis: The “Safety Valve”
In 2025, Reed was the safety valve for a defense that often found itself on the field for long stretches.
| Stat Category | 2025 Stats | Career High? |
|---|---|---|
| Tackles | 98 | Yes |
| Interceptions | 3 | Yes |
| Tackles for Loss | 6.5 | Yes |
| Pass Breakups | 4 | No |
Analyst Note: The 98 tackles are telling. Ideally, a safety shouldn’t be making that many tackles (it means the front seven missed), but Reed cleaned up everything.
The Scouting Report: Old School Hit Stick
Reed brings a physicality that is becoming rare in the modern game.
Strengths:
- Run Support: He diagnosis run plays instantly and fills the alley with violence.
- Tackling: One of the surest open-field tacklers in the Big Ten.
- Ball Skills: showed improved range in 2025, culminating in a game-sealing interception against Wisconsin.
Weaknesses:
- Deep Speed: Can be burned by elite 4.3 speed receivers on post routes.
- Man Coverage: Struggles against twitchy slot receivers in isolation.
Draft Projection: Box Safety Value
Reed fits the mold of a “Box Safety” in the NFL—a player who thrives near the line of scrimmage.
- Comparison: Jaquan Brisker (Chicago Bears).
- Projection: 3rd-4th Round.
- Best Fits: Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns (AFC North style football).
The Verdict
Jaylen Reed leaves Penn State as one of the toughest defenders of the James Franklin era. He wasn’t always the flashiest player, but he was the one opponents feared crossing the middle against. He projects as immediate special teams starter and eventually a starting strong safety in the NFL.